The Nets traded Kyrie Irving in a deal

After a protracted story of upheaval that significantly reduced Kyrie Irving's trade value over several months, the Nets were able to eventually get rid of him. If the Nets want Kevin Durant to sign a long-term contract, they must make plans to acquire a running partner for him. Durant has a four-year contract, which is fortunate for the Nets. If that happens, the Nets may decide to just keep Durant instead of trading him. The Nets are under no pressure to acquire Durant through trade. He can complicate matters by requesting a trade, but it's unclear where we are right now.

This enables Brooklyn to at least postpone until the offseason the decision of whether to deal him. Teams will still try to trade for Durant, as the Suns have promised to do if he becomes available, but the Nets can simply turn down offers and postpone any deals until the summer.